Senior Staff Accountant

JOB SUMMARY

              The Senior Staff Accountant supports the accounting and finance function through a combination of financial analysis, general accounting, tax support and budgeting/forecasting activities.  This role will work closely with the Controller and leadership team to provide financial insights, maintain accurate financial records, and improve financial processes.

JOB DUTIES AND ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

            The Senior Staff Accountant performs a variety of tasks and duties which may include, but are not limited to the following:

• Assist with month-end and year-end close processes, including journal entries, reconciliations, and variance analysis. 
• Prepare and analyze monthly financial statements and management reports.
• Support budgeting, forecasting and financial planning activities. 
• Performs financial analysis to identify trends, risks and opportunities. 
• Assist with tax compliance and tax return preparation including Sales, Income and Property taxes. 
• Support external audit and liaison with auditors as needed. 
• Help develop and improve financial models and reporting tools. 
• Assist with general ledger maintenance and account analysis. 
• Participate in process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency and accuracy.
• Provide ad hoc financial analysis and reporting for management. 
• Crosstrain in key accounting and finance functions to support business continuity.
• Assist in preparing Annual Arizona Corporation Commission Report by working with Operations and Engineering to obtain all necessary data.
• Assists the Rate Case Department with Rate Case preparation and data requests.
• Helps the Controller with the implementation and monitoring of internal controls. 
• Assists the Payroll Administrator and Controller with Bi-weekly payroll review and analysis as required. 
• Performs other duties as assigned by the Controller.

SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE, AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Skills, knowledge, and physical requirements include, but are not limited to the following:

• Advanced Excel skills and strong analytical abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines. 
• Knowledge and understanding of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), Financial Account Standards Board (FASB) pronouncements, the Internal Revenue Code.
• Understanding of the NARUC System of Accounts, and Arizona Corporation Commission policies a plus.
• Ability to interact with supervisors, co-workers, in a professional manner.
• Must be dependable, punctual, and have good attendance.
• Neat and presentable professional appearance.
• Ability to perform repetitive physical activities using feet, legs, hands, and arms, and be able to use keyboard, walk, sit, bend, stoop, climb stairs, reach, grasp, push, pull and lift up to 20 lbs.

EDUCATION, TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

The following are required:

• Bachelor's degree in Accounting, Finance, or related field.
• CPA certification or current CPA candidate.
• 5-10 years of progressive accounting and/or financial analysis experience.
• Strong knowledge of GAAP and financial reporting.
• Experience with budgeting and forecasting processes.
• Exposure to tax compliance and audit support preferred.   
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Experience with regulatory accounting and rate-making principles is desirable.
• ERP Experience
• Valid Arizona driver's license and acceptable driving record.